Dibuat oleh Admin. Pada 17 February 2025 - 15:11
SM Pertamina finally had to let go of their seven-game winning streak this season. It was Rans and Dewa United who were able to give two defeats to Youbel Sondakh's team in the continuation of IBL 2025 last week. The match against Rans which was held at IPB Bogor was exciting. Taking turns attacking and defending was the main attraction that night. Even the match was still evenly matched in the last 12 seconds before Devon Van Oostrum's action was finally able to make them win with a score of 84-82. Sharp shooting accuracy and a stronger defensive pattern were the keys for Rans to emerge as the winner at that time. Satria Muda Pertamina head coach Youbel Sondakh said that the biggest factor in Rans being able to excel was that they played with more energy and determination than his squad. "We were too relaxed, especially in the first and second quarters, so we were able to make them excel quite comfortably. They really looked like they were playing more aggressively, more eager to win and taking advantage of our bodies which didn't seem ready to play with full physical contact. Congratulations again to Rans," said Youbel after the match. "But I'm still happy because we were given thrilling games like this at the beginning of the season because it can train our mentality to face the next important matches," he continued. After a day off, SM Pertamina returned to the field, this time another tough opponent was waiting for Dewa United. Once again, the loss of offensive rebound was the cause of Widy et al.'s defeat. In addition, Dewa was also solid in defense, as seen from how they were able to lock the aggressiveness of points from SM's mainstay players such as Abraham and LB Nash. The latter even had to leave again because he was fouled out. Dewa United Arena, which is usually friendly to SM Pertamina's victory, changed this time. They sided with the home team with a score of 85-77. Next, SM Pertamina will return to play on March 5 in Kelapa Gading hosting the Tangerang Hawks.
